Miller County approves funds for new 911 system

The Miller County Quorum Court approved $61,579 on Monday for a system used to record 911 emergency calls.

Miller County Judge Roy John McNatt entered into a five-year term for the “NICE” Voice Logging System, ending March 20, 2021. It has been installed in the 911 Center at the Miller County Sheriff’s Department.

The original system failed, and a loaner unit was used until the new system was installed. McNatt entered into an agreement to buy a new system, which will be funded through the county general budget.

A contract was extended with Southern Health Partners to pay for the additional costs of treating inmates in the Miller County jail. The Quorum Court approved the increase of adding eight nursing hours per week for $786.24 per month because of the dramatic increase in medical treatment to inmates. The move will increase the hours of a licensed professional nurse from 32 hours to 40 hours per week, according to the ordinance.

The Quorum Court also approved a resolution to provide funding for electronic voting equipment that could cost $423,000.

The Miller County Election Commission has been working with the Arkansas Secretary of State to determine who will pay for the equipment. The Secretary of State has been unable to designate a specific funding source for the replacement of electronic voting equipment, according to the resolution.

The commission is exploring options for Miller County to determine the best course of action for the replacement of the equipment, said Brandon Coburn, election commission chairman.

Justice of the Peace Eric Darden was appointed as a volunteer as a youth development liaison. The goal will be to support support youth and community development.